About Tackling Minds
Tackling Minds was founded in February 2020 in Greater Manchester, overlooking Hollingworth Lake. The organisation was created by David Lyons, who had experienced complex mental health problems and found that fishing played a vital role in his recovery. David has often said that without fishing he may not be here today. His personal journey inspired him to establish Tackling Minds to share the benefits of angling with others facing similar challenges.
Our purpose is simple but powerful – To improve mental health, reduce social isolation and create opportunities for people who are too often left behind by traditional services. Fishing is the tool we use, but our aim is much wider. We want people to find connection, confidence, purpose and community.
We work with people from all walks of life. This includes Disabled people, those living with mental health conditions, people in recovery from addiction, families, veterans, young people, and those experiencing poverty or long-term health conditions. For many, fishing offers a safe and therapeutic environment.
Tackling Minds is fully inclusive. It does not matter whether someone has never picked up a fishing rod before or has years of experience. Our sessions are free, person-centred, and adapted to individual needs.
We provide all equipment and support, and our qualified coaches and volunteers, many of whom have lived experience, create a stigma-free environment where participants can feel safe, understood and valued.
We work closely with mental health organisations, schools, NHS social prescribing link workers and Police divisions who refer people into our sessions. These partnerships help us to fill gaps in provision and support people who struggle to engage with traditional services.
Our aim is to continue breaking down barriers to wellbeing, using fishing as a pathway to improved mental health, stronger communities and lasting change.
Tackling Minds has a large social media audience of over 100,000 followers, that we promote our initiative to. We work closely with mental health organisations, schools, NHS social prescribing link workers and Police divisions who refer people into our sessions.
“Look at the Tackling Minds . It’s a group dedicated to promoting the mental health benefits of fishing to a wide group of people. I love this project because it reaches out to everyone regardless of their background, ethnicity, level of ability etc., etc., It’s inclusive, positive and wonderful.
Please share this and take the time to support this wonderful new organisation in whichever way you can. At the very least you can follow them.
Take a bow, Tackling Minds – you have my support”
Matt Hayes
TV & Fishing celebrity
“I appreciate what you are trying to do as I have several friends and family members who are going through such issues. I wish Tackling Minds every success.”
Mick Brown
TV & fishing celebrity
“As I’ve always said to the Mental Health Gang, you’ve got to keep the mind and body busy. Keep active and you’ll keep smiling. Another thing that will help you is fishing!! Fishing is a great sport and there’s nothing more relaxing than to be outside in the fresh air and keeping the mind busy.
Give Tackling Minds a follow and find out some of the benefits to this relaxing past time which will help you massively!”
Ricky Hatton MBE
4 x two-weight World Boxing Champion
A Royal Honour for Our Founder
We are incredibly proud to share that Tackling Minds Founder, David Lyons, has been personally selected by His Majesty King Charles III to attend a special reception at Buckingham Palace, recognising individuals who have made a significant contribution to society.
Out of over 5,000 nominations across the UK, David was one of only 200 chosen — a true testament to the impact of his work through Tackling Minds. His dedication to improving mental health, breaking down stigma, and using fishing as a powerful tool for recovery continues to change lives every day.
This royal recognition highlights not just David’s personal journey, but the value and importance of the work Tackling Minds is doing across communities.
We couldn’t be prouder.